EXCLUSIVE: Former Minister Uche Nnaji Still Receiving Salaries Nine Months After Leaving Office

Fresh controversy has emerged following allegations that former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, continues to receive government salaries and benefits months after leaving office.

According to an investigation by National Concord, Nnaji, who resigned from the federal cabinet in October 2025 amid a certificate controversy, is allegedly still listed on the federal government’s payroll and has continued to receive multimillion-naira salary payments and allowances despite no longer serving as a minister.

The allegations have sparked concerns about accountability and oversight within Nigeria’s public service payroll system, with critics questioning how a former public official could allegedly remain on the government salary structure months after vacating office.

National Concord investigation claims that records reviewed by its team indicate that payments continued long after Nnaji’s departure from the cabinet, raising fresh questions about internal controls and financial management within government institutions.

Nnaji served as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology from August 2023 until his resignation in October 2025 following allegations surrounding his academic credentials. At the time of his resignation, he maintained that stepping down was not an admission of wrongdoing but a decision taken to allow due process regarding the allegations against him.

The latest claims are expected to intensify public scrutiny of government payroll administration and could prompt calls for an independent audit to determine whether the payments were authorised, accidental, or the result of administrative failures.

As of the time of this report, there has been no official response from Nnaji or relevant government agencies regarding the allegations. The claims also remain untested in court and have not been independently verified by authorities.

Observers say the matter underscores the need for stronger transparency measures and regular audits of public sector payroll systems to prevent potential abuses and ensure accountability in the management of public funds.